Italy

Varzo

Varzo

Varzo is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Situated in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, this picturesq…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Skiing travelers
  • Hiking travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Varzo is a strong pick for skiing & hiking — plan about 3-5 days. Peak season: Summer.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 90/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈22.1 km span)

50 Places to explore
3-5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · October · November

Weather

Autumn

15°C - 25°C

Spring

10°C - 20°C

Summer

20°C - 30°C

Winter

0°C - 10°C

How to get there

How to Reach Varzo, Italy

Located in the beautiful region of Piedmont, Varzo is a charming town nestled in the Italian Alps. Whether you are planning to visit for a relaxing mountain getaway or to explore the breathtaking natural scenery, reaching Varzo is relatively easy. Here are a few options to consider:

By Air

If you are traveling from abroad, the closest international airports to Varzo are Milan Malpensa Airport and Milan Linate Airport. Both airports offer numerous flights from major cities worldwide. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Varzo, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away. Alternatively, you can also take a train or bus from Milan to Varzo.

By Train

Varzo is well-connected by train, making it a convenient option for travelers within Italy. The town has its own train station, Varzo-Crevoladossola, which is serviced by regional trains. If you are coming from Milan, you can take a train from Milano Centrale station to Domodossola, and then transfer to the regional train to Varzo. The journey takes around 2 hours and offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

By Car

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car is a great option. Varzo is easily accessible via the A26 motorway, which connects the town to major cities in the region. The drive from Milan to Varzo takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The route is scenic, passing through picturesque villages and offering stunning views of the Alps.

By Bus

There are also bus services available from various cities in the region to Varzo. You can check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option for your journey. The buses are comfortable and offer a cost-effective way to reach Varzo while enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.

Once you arrive in Varzo, you will be greeted by the town's peaceful atmosphere and surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Italian Alps. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Varzo has something to offer everyone.

Getting to know Varzo

Varzo is a charming town located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Situated in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, this picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Varzo is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions in Varzo is its close proximity to the stunning Simplon Pass. This mountain pass connects Switzerland and Italy, offering visitors the opportunity to explore both countries. The Simplon Pass is known for its scenic beauty and is a favorite spot for hikers and nature lovers. The pass also holds historical significance as it was once a vital trade route during the Roman Empire.

In addition to its natural wonders, Varzo boasts a rich history that can be seen in its well-preserved architecture. The town is home to several historic churches, including the Church of San Michele, which dates back to the 13th century. The Church of San Gaudenzio is another notable landmark, featuring beautiful frescoes and a stunning bell tower. Strolling through the narrow streets of Varzo, visitors can also admire the traditional stone houses and charming squares that give the town its unique character.

Varzo is also known for its traditional cuisine, offering a taste of authentic Italian flavors. Local restaurants serve delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as mountain cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Visitors can indulge in regional specialties like polenta, risotto, and hearty stews. Pairing these dishes with a glass of local wine is a must-do for food enthusiasts.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit the historic center of Varzo
  • Explore the nearby natural parks
  • Try local cuisine at traditional restaurants

Places worth exploring

50 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Varzo?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Varzo, Italy.

When is the best time to visit Varzo?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Varzo?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, October, November.

What kind of trip is Varzo good for?

Varzo suits Skiing, Hiking, Wine Tasting, Cultural Tours.

Is Varzo walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Varzo?

Visit the historic center of Varzo

Build your trip

Add Varzo and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Varzo → Crodo → Montecrestese · ≈16 km
  • Varzo → Crodo → Baceno · ≈17 km
  • Varzo → Trasquera → Crodo · ≈10 km

Same vibe

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